Australian Researchers Track Antarctic Blue Whales

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Australian Researchers Track Antarctic Blue Whales

Australian Scientists have successfully attached tracking devices to two Blue Whales in the antarctic. The exciting developments are the fruition of The Southern Ocean trip of The Antarctic Blue Whale Project. The Scientists were able to locate the whales by following their songs with state-of-the-art acoustic technology.

During their seven trip, the group of fearless researcher braved freezing and dangerous conditions to collect vital data on the whales. The Blue Whale is the largest of all whales and can grow up to 30metres in length. Tony Burke, Environment Minister, commented that: ""Its tongue along is heavier than a car and its heart is as big as a small car." Despite their overwhelming size, the scientists boarded a small jet boat and able to approach to the giant creatures close enough to attach the tracking device. Watch incredible video footage of the team cruising along side the largest creature on the planet.

The Blue Whale is the largest creature on the planet. Photo Credit: http://www.hghstrip.com/

The scientists were able to collect 23 biopsy samples and attache satellite tags to two Blue whales. The satellite tags are enabling scientists to obtain new data and to track the movements of the gentle giants during their feeding season. Researcher Virginia Andrews-Goff commented that "this method of studying Antarctic Blue whales has be so successful it will now become the blueprint for other whale researchers across the world."